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Think Community

Could it really be 49 years since High School? Our “all class” reunion in

Emmett Idaho had 750 attend, here are some of my classmates. (1965).

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Thank you for joining us on Open MIC

9:00: AM Pacific Thursday 800 504-8071 Code is 5556463#

David Townsend at David@annuity.com

Anthony Owen at Tony@eagleshadowfinancial.com

Chad Owen at Chad@eagleshadowfinancial.com

Joe Rych at Joe@annuity.com Bill Broich at bbroich@msn.com

Shaun Ebben at shaun@annuity.com Amber@annuity.com Life Number 208 297-7818 Cell 208 585-1312 Amber O'Brien 208 297-7747

Jayson Lynch: Email: Jayson@annuityagentsalliance.com

Phone: 888-742-4368 X2 Cell: 919-247-5927

Editorial:

It is time for us to grow up and become professionals. I think the weakest

link in professional licensing in our industry, is continuing education. I

have written on this several times in the past. This last month I had an

agent I have known for 20 plus years make this remark to me:

“I don’t worry about continuing education issues, my wife gets the books

and takes the test for me, it takes her about 2 hours.” (Washington is 32

hours CE every two years)

How much pride in our profession does this attitude add to being

a professional salesperson?

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NAFA has a strong opinion on licensing, I encourage you to open this link

and read it.

http://annuityoutlookmagazine.com/2014/09/licensed-to-sell-and-stay-compliant/

Speaking of NAFA, Check this great site out:

http://fixedannuityfacts.com/

And this:

http://nafa.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Articles_RetirementIncomePlanning.pdf

More….401k plans, bank assets

Damn these brokerage houses, they couldn’t compete with our products, fought us tooth and nail over 151A and now have joined us and become the neighborhood bully…..BB

http://www.investmentnews.com/article/20140910/FREE/140919990/wells-fargo-pushes-insurers-to-

lower-commissions-on-indexed-annuities#

Wells Fargo pushes insurers to lower commissions on indexed

annuities Debut of its new offerings follows an industrywide surge in popularity for the products

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On Monday, Wells Fargo kicked off its newly updated annuity platform to offer indexed

annuities, which are fixed annuities that credit a minimum guaranteed interest rate and

an interest rate that's tied to the movement within an index. Those products will now

have level commissions of 4%, a minimum cap rate of 3% and a surrender period that

can't go over eight years.

Of Interest

Last week Chad shared with us his use of a cell phone with

matching area code in which he was calling, it was a great share,

Tony has the recording if you missed it.

Derek Colton added to this with another share

From: Derek Colton

Sent: Thursday, September 11, 2014 3:05 PM To: Anthony Owen

Hi Anthony-regarding the conversation about Chad using a different phone to reach prospects. There is a service I've used for years www.spoofcard.com that allows you to enter ANY area code and number that you would like to show up on your caller ID.

This avoids the hassle of having multiple phones and the expense involved with that. You simply buy packages of minutes which are very inexpensive. It works like magic in getting those prospects who recognize your usual caller ID, to pick up the phone.

Thanks for the share Derek…..BB

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Stock Market Bubble?

How do you think the market will respond when

government support stops?

The Green Line indicates the Governments support (QE1-2-3) which is

set to expire next month. Quantitative Easing has provided $100 billion a

month to come back into our economy by the Federal Reserve by buying

short term Treasuries thus keeping interest rates very low. With almost no

yield, investors moved to the stock market, which caused it to grow (under

a bubble?)

I am strictly an amateur at this, but wouldn’t common sense dictate that the

market has responded to QE? When QE stops, my guess is the market will

languish and interest rates will rise. If interest rates rise, caps in FIA will

increase and our products will have more appeal. But haven’t we been

enjoying record FIA sales? Seems to me the future is much brighter than

the present….BB

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Sales and Marketing Topic:

Here is an article regarding Variable Annuities, please feel free to

use in any manner you wish, I reserve no copyright.

Also, we have a very large library of articles on numerous topics, if

there is something you would like to use and we have it, just email

me. If I have it, you can have it, could make great handouts to

clients and prospects. ….BB

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Variable Annuities

In recent years, annuities have been making a comeback. Having weathered the

economic crisis in 2008 with most of their value intact, fixed rate annuities have become

the standard for retirement savings that generate income with no risk of loss to the

principle. These annuities are designed for modest growth, primarily to keep up with

inflation and the cost of living, while giving their holders the security of not having to

take look at high risk investments to cover their lifestyle.

Variable annuities, on the other hand, try to accomplish more than that. Higher Risk

investments may generate more income for the annuity holder, but this income can be

reduced by the fees charged for maintenance of these accounts. In addition, any account

tied to the market, increases or flat-lines based on the vagaries of the market. If the

market loses money, your account value decreases with it and fees still are charged on

your variable annuity.

Typically, a variable annuity is a tax-deferred investment that is sold as a security by

licensed security brokers. A variable annuity even though it is a security it still qualifies

for tax deferral. Variable annuities allow the investor to choose the level of risk, as well

as potential growth, and have the ability to pick between groups of mutual fund type

accounts known as “separate” accounts. These separate accounts, then become the basis

of the annuity investment. At first blush, this all sounds very good.

Unfortunately, in addition to the variable nature of the asset growth, these annuities

charge fees and expenses for this choice. According to Morningstar, an investment

research and management firm in Chicago, the average variable annuity levies fees

totaling 2.44 percent annually for the maintenance of the account. That is prior to any

other fees or charges. Plus, the fees are charged even if the account fails to gain.

In addition, most variable annuities have a declining surrender fee built into the

structure of the annuity. The length of time that the surrender fee applies is different for

each company and each product and should be one of the major aspects of the annuity

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you check thoroughly. A surrender fee means that if you change your mind or have an

emergency where you need your principle, you are subject to up to a 7 percent penalty.

This penalty is levied on the principle and on any gains your account has made, in other

words, the full account value.

The federal government also charges a penalty of 10 percent plus the normal tax on any

withdrawals made on these annuities before the holder is 59 1/2 years old. Establishing

a variable annuity is not something to be taken lightly if there is any chance you will

need the money for a different purpose between the times you set it up and when you

are 59 1/2.

Your beneficiaries will also be responsible for all taxes on your gains and the principle if

they inherit the variable annuity. This is in sharp contrast to benefits paid on life

insurance policies. If you are planning your estate, variable annuities can be more of a

burden to pass on than any type of benefit.

The pitch for the policy will make it sound as safe and as enticing as mutual funds, and

the exposure to risk aspect will be played down to magnify the high reward

possibilities. By making them sound as good as mutual funds and having the same kind

of potential, they can justify the high expenses.

Fees, expenses and the exposure to risk should all be carefully examined prior to making

any final decision. It is usually best to obtain a second opinion before making your

decision.

Here is a great marketing trick you can also you. How

about using one of our articles and customizing it for

handouts?

This will be available for you this fall…have a look….BB

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Here is an example of how you will be cross marketed with print, radio, TV

and the internet. This is a sample of how the handout will look, it has your

personal contact information and if you are using Safe Money Radio, your

broadcast times. This will make a great handout to prospects you are

seeing.

Tired of Stock Market Losing Returns?

Written by Bill Broich, Annuity.com, Calistoga CA

Gain or Retain, now that is an interesting investment option. How would you like to have the option of only gaining and never losing money? It's not every day that you find the opportunity for potential growth with true safety in the same financial vehicle

Normally investors are provided one of two choices, either they give up safety in exchange for a greater potential for growth or they accept less growth in exchange for a higher level of safety. Thanks to an innovation in the insurance industry, you can have the potential high returns tied to the stock market and the security of a guarantee, these unique products are called Fixed Indexed Annuities.

Fixed Indexed Annuities are solid choices for investors seeking safety in a low interest rate period and a volatile financial market. They work like this, your return (or amount credited) is based on a percentage of increase of a stock or equity index, such as the Standard and Poor’s Stock 500 Index or the Dow Jones Industrial Average If stocks increase, you could benefit but if stocks fall, you retain your position. You only can do one of two things: Gain or Retain.

Your investment funds in an IRA or 401 (k) would also return the same crediting rate if they were inside of a Fixed Indexed Annuity. The IRS allows for these products to be used in retirement accounts. This safety of principal will guarantee you will never lose money nor will your account ever be exposed to risk or loss.

Gain or Retain!

Insurance companies offer a wide range of products in this category and do not charge any fees. Instead they limit the gross yield available o you. In this scenario, let's pretend your crediting rate was 10% but the annuity had a cap of 6%, your return would be 6% and no fee would be subtracted. Once again, if the market fell, you do not participate.

The most dynamic feature in Fixed Indexed Annuities is the annual Guarantee Reset. This means that each year, whatever gain you have enjoyed by the anniversary of the annuity is now fully locked in and becomes part of the guarantee. Assuming a deposit of $100,000 grows to $106,000 at the end of the first year that is now your guaranteed minimum. Your funds can never be less that the annual reset guarantee. Gain or Retain: Consider this safety option as you make the important decisions about how to invest in your retirement accounts.

Bill Broich is an Annuity.com

Preferred Advisor

http://billbroich.retirevillage.com

(360) 701-6209

Call for My Safe Money

Guide

Tune in to my Safe Money Radio

Programs

KBOI Boise 670 AM

@ 3:00 PM Saturdays @ 7:00 AM Sundays @ 8:00 AM Sundays

WNFZ Caldwell 94.3 FM

@ 9:00AM Saturdays @ 1:00PM Saturdays

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Agent Share:

2 agents ought 6 leads for a total of $625.00, the value in estimated annuity premium opened: Approx. $850,000 to $900,000 This is about one of those leads and how transparency made the sale.

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Kevin, can you give us a quick overview of FinAuction, where you harvest the leads, your CSR assistance etc. How many leads are you currently harvesting each day?

Lead Details

Date: 05/28/2014

Type: Auction Lead

Price: $179

Retirement Savings $250’000 to $500,000

Born 1950

CSR's Name: Susanne Parks (you have a direct link to the CSR)

Lead Source

Description:

This lead has been generated by one of our Partner Sites. The

lead filled out a form requesting the Safe Money Guide &

Personalized Quote.

This lead has received an electronic copy of the Safe Money Guide via

email. The lead is expecting a call to discuss retirement concerns, Annuity

Quotes and Rates. Here is a copy of the Guide received:

http://www.annuity.com/files/download.php?f=2013Annuity_Guide.pdf

Notes from CSR: George confirmed that he has $500,000. That is currently in mutual funds. His main concern is losing his money; he is interested knowing what his options are. The best time to reach George is late mornings.

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Anatomy of a Sale

This is a fascinating story.

This is a story about the conversion of an internet lead (cost $179) to a $455,000 annuity sale simply by building a relationship, making the correct use of a competitors information, and having the “guts” to play it with all information in the open. (Transparency)

This sale exhibits the power of our products and how competitive they are against our competition.

The lead costs $179.

Disclaimer: In no way are we (or me) complaining or being critical about

MetLife, their agents or their products. MetLife is a very fine company with competent and well trained agents. This case is really about fact finding and understanding what the prospect is hoping to achieve.

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I have Betty Arellano and Marilyn Clark as guests today to answer any questions and to explain exactly how they netted this “big” fish by simple showing the power of information.

Once the lead was received, it was called and a relationship began.

First call:

(Marilyn) This lead was a FinAuction lead. I looked at it for a couple of days and talked to Betty about it and then we bought it. He was initially hard to reach. After I reached him I didn't feel he was really that interested in seeing another agent. Initially he told me his Met Life agent had died 2 years ago, he was ticked off at them for giving him another agent who only wanted to sell him long term care and not help him with his existing accounts and I had the sense he was overall not at all happy with Met Life. I asked the underlying questions about purpose of the $$, etc., and he definitely said he wanted it out of harm's way and realized he could have some significant losses with a market dip. Yet, he did not seem to have any urgency about getting together with us.

3 weeks later: I would say 3 weeks or so went by as I had left him a message and did not get a call back. This was before our initial meeting. I had a coffee stop with Betty and we were talking and basically I got my "dander" up and said there is no reason we cannot get these cases and meet with these people. I went back home with determination to get back in the game and got an appointment with him.

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Determination: I have always been low key in setting appointments but thorough. I let them off of the hook too easily at times. I'm not comfortable pushing too hard. That day I was uncomfortable NOT pushing to get the appointment. I have tried to hold that attitude since then while honoring the wishes of the prospect.

During the phone call he indicated he was using his annuities for income and that he had 6% guaranteed returns from which to draw from his funds. I asked him to send me the information, which he did.

Fist response from prospect, after phone conversation

Hello Marilyn,

My plan is to draw out only the interest on each of the accounts. This would continue until I die. After that, it would be pretty much up to Shawna (assuming I go first) what she wants to do. The income stream would begin when I retire - probably at age 66. So below is how I figured what the income stream would look like. (based on today’s amounts). Of course, I probably would not need all of this and would only draw what I actually need.

Annuity #1 - $367,287 x .06 = $1,836/mo = $22,037/yr

Annuity #2 - $83,109 x .06 = $415/mo = $4,986/yr

Annuity #3 - $81,482 x .05 = $340/mo = $4,074/yr Annuity #4 - $32,692 x .06 = $163/mo = $1,961/yr Annuity #5 - $21,815 x .05 = $91/mo = $1090/yr

Bill: Common error, these are income rider account guarantees, not the amount you will be able to withdraw. Client thinks he can withdraw 6% annually and it is the guaranteed yield for income

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They called the Calvary

Hi George, I received information this evening that you had requested to know what options might be available for you with some retirement funds you have. I like to contact people before calling, and the information indicated you prefer to be called late morning.

(annuity.com Annuity Guide Booklet, this helped reinforce the

relationship) I will send you another electronic booklet, just to confirm that you receive it, and I will call you Thursday, tomorrow, after 10 but before noon.

(Easy addition to relationship building, no pressure)There is no pressure in what we do, but we represent many highly rated insurance companies who offer safe and guaranteed accounts with definite growth and options for income later or sooner, depending upon your needs.

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I will call you to check with you about questions you have and to see how I can be of service. I work with a business partner and we like supporting our clients in ways which are beneficial to them.

Look forward to speaking with you tomorrow. Sincerely, Marilyn K. Clark Bill: This case is really about perception of benefits and exposure to risk. The prospect thought he could withdraw 6% from his Variable Annuities as the “yield” and maintain the accounts. Obviously MetLife would never have sold it that way but over time the prospect determined that was how the income rider worked. His original agent was no longer in the picture and service was lacking as was any personal relationship. Instead of focusing on fact finding and really understanding the client’s needs and goals, the new agent assigned (MetLife) to this case only tried to sell product.

Closing

I helped Marilyn and Betty with case prep, my idea was to keep it simple

and assure him he should verify the facts with MetLife service center

(which he did).

It took real guts from Marilyn and Betty to do this but we all knew we

were right and MetLife would prove us correct. The prospect went to the

source (MetLife) with the questions we suggested and got answers directly

from them.

Transparency made this case possible, “don’t believe us, verify with

MetLife”

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Sidebar: Did you know that the 6% offered in Income Riders is

in fact guaranteed but the actual calculations offered for determination of

the actual income benefits is fully adjustable in variable annuities? Did you

know income from a FIA is part of the actual contract? This all became

very important because the VA there was no specified income benefit. It

must be calculated and will adjust as interest rates adjust.

This could mean a VA company could guarantee 10% year after year and

still not lose money! Why? The actual valuation for the calculation of how

the income account is paid out is a moveable number, always adjustable.

That simple fact alone should be responsible for millions of new FIA sales.

Now look at American Equity, their fees, their payout benefit and their

Income Rider expense are in the contract and guaranteed.

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More agents on next page of annuity contract, but you get the idea.

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Transparency: here is where I found the prospectus and the

contractual information including fees, expenses and benefits: https://www.metlife.com/individual/investment-products/annuities/prospectuses/preference-plus-

select.html

Use the transparency of the prospectus to explain fees and expenses to

the prospect, encourage the prospect to call his broker or the company

directly

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Presentation: This was my draft, Marilyn and Betty changed a little but

mostly it was a verbal close

Mr. and Mrs. XXXXXXXX

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Thank you for the opportunity to examine your variable annuities and to

make recommendations.

MetLife variable annuities contain fees and expenses. The fees are based

on the actual contract, the fund managing your money and for any riders.

For actual specific information based on your product, a call to MetLife

service center will confirm these charges and expenses. (800 638-7732).

Your contract numbers are xxxxxx, xxxxxxx, xxxxxxxx

In reading the prospectus (please verify with their service center) we have

estimated your fees are:

Fees are annual and are based on your annuity account value

For the variable annuity contract, can vary from 1.00% to higher

Investment management (portfolio 60) .93

Enhanced death benefit .75

6% Income benefit, the fee varies based on

date of purchase, the range is 1.20% to .65%, I would

suggest you ask service center for your expense level

It is possible your total fees are in excess of 3-4% paid annually based on

your account value.

If you call the service center, here are questions to ask, you own Preference

Plus Select B Class, you can also give them your account number:

What am I being charged for my annuity contract?

What am I being charged for a management fee?

What am I being charged for a separate account fee?

What am I being charged for the enhanced death benefit?

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What am I being charged for the “Predictor” income rider?

Can you please calculate my annual fees for my contract?

Regarding your IRA (number xxxxxxxx) Income rider: You are being

credited 6% per year on your original deposits ($221,524). Your current

income rider value is $367,366.

The 6% is not paid annually to you; it is to determine the value of the funds

which is used to calculate your income value. The actual determination is

calculated by the service center based on your goals (life income, including

your spouse, many variations exists).

I would estimate the income value received to be far less than you expect.

Your estimate of $22.037 is not accurate; I would guess it may be closer to

$10,000 annually or less. The service center can estimate accurately your

income value base on your goals.

You purchased your IRA annuity October 31, 2005. Its current value is

$321,839 (6-30-14).

Our recommendation is you transfer this annuity to a Fixed Indexed

Annuity. A FIA has no fees, no expenses and no exposure to loss. This

would allow you to remove any chance of loss and lock in a specified

income, known exactly in advance.

The FIA also offers an addition 5% which would be added to your account

value ($321,839 times 5% = $16,091) for a beginning value of $337,930.

This transfer can be completed without tax liability or surrender penalty. I

have enclosed a proposal showing you your income value in 2 years.

Marilyn: Once we had him engaged in the fact finding process, he is the one who called me and said, "Can we have one more meeting"?

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After we went through the information he was asking for at that time, he said, "I want to go forward with moving this money and I want to also put the $100,000 into one of these accounts." I had initially recommended he take the $100k from the bank and put it here because he still has another $85,000 which is liquid with Met Life so that could be left in place. He wanted to do something with the $100k but initially did not want to tie it up long term. My suggestion was to place it and move the larger IRA and still have liquidity with his $85k instead of letting his $100k sit in the bank and do nothing. It ultimately came back where he said, "this is what I want to do." It was his call in the end and he said he would move his wife's liquid IRA with Met Life also. Source of funds for the 2 sales (actual amount was $455k) $100k Bank $322K Met Life $30k Met Life wife's IRA (Fact finder had no problem explaining situation to compliance) They both still have $$ in non-qualified accounts with Met Life and he is retiring in 2 years.

Additional Notes: Marilyn: He was waiting for info from Met Life. I waited until such time that we could have a 3 way with Met Life, as the info he had been given was not at all correct based upon how I understood the income rider. That being said, since it was a variable annuity, I was careful not to make any direct statements, just how I understood it and that I was not securities licensed.

After the 2nd meeting and attempting to close, he wanted more time to Re visit his outline at home. He also wanted more time to talk to MetLife again. He was stuck in their 6% income rider. After meeting number one, we set up meeting 2 in the following week. Set that up at the end of meeting 1.

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After meeting 2, he still wasn't satisfied that Met Life was not going to give him the rider payment as he understood.

This takes great finesse but it is powerful:

I then scheduled a 3 way call with Met Life. That was the week after the 2nd appointment. Once that 3 way was finished, he said he wanted to meet one more time with us. At that meeting, he said, "I want to go forward with the changes.".... Once the 3rd meeting was done, it all happened within 3 weeks. If I had it to do again, I would have displayed more leadership to him by: Setting up the 3 way with Met Life immediately. We were meeting in a library, so it wasn't the best place to do it.

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The case from start to ending was about 3 months but that was because he was hard to get to commit to a date and time for a meeting. He was traveling, etc., and this was kind of on the back burner.

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This took time but was totally worth it and while neither Betty nor I knew how it would turn out, we knew we had to let him call the shots so to speak. In the end, he said "let's do it". And he has played ball with us all the way through with some of the little extra things we needed.

Look at the control they are exhibiting with their new client:

First name basis and needing him to help with transfer

HI George, Do you have a time this morning after 10 when I can call you? I need about 10 minutes on the phone. Betty and I always check with the home office of American Equity before transmitting forms and a couple of questions came up we need to inquire about. This has to do with the financial form. I will explain when we talk. Thanks. Marilyn

HI George, We found out this morning that on accounts over $300,000, Met Life requires what is called a Medallion signature on the original Transfer Request form. This is the quickest way we can accomplish this, and I hope it is not inconvenient.

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Look at these instructions form Marilyn and he followed them: Print off the attached Transfer Request on a full sized page, take this to your bank or any bank close to you and let them know you need a Medallion stamp for your signature on the form. Your signature place is right under the first bold black line on the left. You can see that on the right hand side it shows the Medallion signature guarantee. I am sure that is where the bank signs. They will probably charge you something for this unless it is your bank. You must sign it at the bank in front of their person. (Marilyn is giving instructions here, she is in control) Sign the form blank as it comes, and return it to me at Marilyn Clark xxxxxxxxxxx Centralia, Wa. 98531 Betty and I will complete the form with the information needed once we have your Medallion signature on the form. It should get to me in one day by regular mail. I will overnight it to American Equity and they will overnight it to MetLife with the other forms. The processing group at American Equity informed me that without this Medallion signature, Met Life would not accept the transfer paperwork. Thank you. Call me if you have questions. Marilyn

More This is the completed case info from AE. For information on Met Life

variable annuity cases, they require a Medallion signature on the transfer

paperwork.

This was an IRA. We didn't know about the Medallion signature but this could be something beneficial to know ahead of time. Our client worked

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with us just like teamwork. The turnaround time for the $$ to be sent to AE after Met Life Received the Medallion signature page (they want the original) was less than 10 days which I thought was excellent. They told us their turnaround time was to liquidate immediately when the paperwork was in good order, hold the funds for 8 days and send the check on the 10th day. It happened more quickly than that. Thanks. Marilyn

See how Marilyn signs her emails, marketing all the time: Marilyn K. Clark, Safe Money Lady

Finally, what is 455k times 7%?

$31,850, not bad for a marketing

expense of $179

Also, thinking about doing a weekly call, like 9:00am on Wednesdays, where we make ourselves available to talk about the lead business, answer questions for new guys poking around, etc... a theme a week, could be short... Do you like that idea? Could help generate more new agents / agent interest, which could be funneled over to Tony for follow-up...

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-------------------------- Kevin Dufficy Cell: 415 847-4687 kdufficy@gmail.com

New "Alerts Manager" & Lead Management Center Facelift

Hi Kevin,

A couple announcements about our FinAuction Platform: New Alert & Notification Manager

Are you receiving Lead Notifications that you are NOT interested in? Customize your Auction Lead Alerts with our new Alerts Manager... with a simple click of your mouse you are now able to subscribe or unsubscribe from any of the email or text alerts that you want.

To access your Alerts Manager: Alert Notifications Page

Lead Management Center "Facelift"

You may also notice some changes to your LMC (Lead Management Center). You spoke and we listened!!! We have improved the interface so that information is presented in a manner that is more user-friendly and intuitive. Please have a look and let us know if you have any question (or find any bugs!).

To access your Lead Management Center: Lead Management Center We hope these changes meet with your approval, and we look forward to continuing serving your marketing needs. Regards, Jennifer

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Product Discussion:

Share this:

9/15/14

Below you'll find a summary of the marketing news released by the major life insurance carriers over the last week, prepared and provided by your Annuity.com team. Enjoy!

Nationwide

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Long-Term Care Riders vs. Chronic Illness Riders Not all life insurance riders are the same, so don’t let the small print become the big print at claim time. Learn the difference between these riders by viewing this flyer from Nationwide.

AXA As clients near retirement once common concern is how market instability will affect their retirement savings. Is there a way to offer clients some security in retirement years while protecting them during working years? Learn more.

Transamerica LTC Production Can Help you Win a Trip! You may have heard about Break Away, Transamerica’s incentive program offering the opportunity to earn travel prize packages based on sales. Now earning your Break Away is even easier: Long Term Care production is being included towards qualifying! Learn more.

Voya Financial Life Insurance Awareness Month is Here! September marked the start of Life Insurance Awareness Month, which makes it a great time to remind consumers to include life insurance in their financial planning. Check out these witty and newly rebranded consumer materials from Voya to help you leverage LIAM this year. Learn more.

Lincoln Financial Group What’s on Your Clients’ Minds? 56% of Americans believe that protecting their wealth is more important today than it was five years ago. Yet fewer than 15% of Americans say they are “very prepared” to protect their wealth. Without a plan, your clients face some big retirement challenges, including the possibility of outliving savings, rising taxes, healthcare expenses and market volatility. Help protect your clients’ wealth with a new resource from Lincoln in recognition of Life Insurance Awareness Month. Learn more. 4th Quarter is Almost Here! Join Lincoln for an upcoming webcast to hear about ways to get your business processed faster with Lincoln for year-end. Learn more.

Accordia Life Financial Perks of Turning 50 Not many people favor growing older, but Baby Boomers in their late 40’s may not realize how close they are to enjoying the financial perks of turning 50. Learn more.

Legal & General America LIAM Microsite Now Available September is Life Insurance Awareness Month and Legal & General America is helping you kick off this important time in the industry with a new microsite. It’s filled with tools like a consumer-approved video and marketing materials, Facts of Life info-graphic, web ads and more. Learn more.

Protective Meet Bruce - A Father Protecting His Family’s Future Like many of us, Bruce wants to provide financial protection for his family in the event of his untimely death. Thankfully, he found a VUL policy - Protective Investors Choice VUL - that exceeds his expectations for value. Learn more.

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Lower Premium on Short-Duration Coverage Protective has recently lowered rates for short duration coverage face amounts $500,000 and up. Don’t miss this opportunity to deliver low premium with Protective Custom Choice UL. Check out the sample premium comparison and request a quote at the following link. Learn more.

Mutual of Omaha Protecting A Family’s Changing Needs A great advantage of universal life is that it is flexible enough to meet changing needs throughout life. Learn more. Time to Get Fit! The more you know about Mutual of Omaha’s Fit underwriting credit program, the more your clients can benefit. Learn More About Fit Fit Case Study on Multiple Sclerosis

AIG Better Riders to a Better Ride AIG is pleased to announce a sales contest for living benefit riders available on their life insurance policies. Earn points for selling AIG life policies and their living benefit riders that get you entered into a raffle to win a pre-paid 24-month lease on a 528i BMW and Visa Gift Cards! View Flyer.

John Hancock Have a Client Looking to Get the Most Out of Life? John Hancock has a solution to address many of your client’s financial concerns. The new Simplified Life is ideally suited for your high-income earners, ages 30-60, in good health, who are seeking a quick and easy alternative to accumulate more cash for future life events. Learn more.

Prudential Open the Door to a Newly Enhanced PruLife Custom Premier II Prudential’s newly enhanced PruLife Custom Premier II can give clients more of what they need and want. Clients can now have permanent life insurance with meaningful no-lapse guarantees, over 60 underlying investment options, improved cash value growth potential, and the comfort of a new chronic/terminal illness rider. Learn more. Gear Up for Fourth Quarter with Term Conversions Fourth Quarter is fast approaching and now is a good time for you to revisit the Term Conversion process for both Prudential and Hartford Term products. Review these highlighters prior to submitting paperwork to help ensure a smooth conversion process. Prudential to Prudential Term Conversions Hartford to Prudential Term Conversions Buy/Sell Arrangement Using a Cross Purchase Strategy Sarah and Susan own a business together and want to protect their beneficiaries and the business in case one of them were to die unexpectedly. The PruLife UL Protector can offer a solution to help them achieve their goal of transferring the value of their interest in the business to beneficiaries, while allowing the surviving partner to retain 100% ownership and control. Learn more.

Minnesota Life Minnesota Life’s new Omega Builder compares favorably with top competitors. Features of the product include an Income Protection Agreement, which is included on every policy and may decrease cost of insurance chafes

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by up to 50%, which in turn means policy distributions may be enhanced up to 30%. Learn more.

SBLI SBLI Updates Underwriting Guide The SBLI underwriting department is pleased to announce some exciting changes to their field underwriting guide. These updates reflect competitive changes to their age and amount requirements, as well as enhancements to their Financial Underwriting Guide. Summary of changes:

Elimination of medical exams at all ages

Elimination of all resting EKG’s through age 40

Elimination of all treadmill EKG’s through age 70 for amounts up to and including $10 million

Enhanced income replacement multiplier and expanded age brackets

Elimination of Inspection Reports at lower face amounts

SBLI Field Underwriting Guide

MetLife Bring Price-Sensitive Clients in the Door Guaranteed Level Term from MetLife now features new, lower rates. Expand your clients base and strengthen existing relationships by reach out to customers who were price sensitive in the past and can now afford a term policy. Learn more.

Symetra More SUL Competitive Information Symetra is committed to the guaranteed market place, and is committed to being competitive across all funding scenarios. In that spirit, at the link below you’ll find an analysis of how Symetra’s new SUL-G 1.0 compares to the competition when examining single pay scenarios. Single Pays.

Allianz

Most Popular Sales Kit Updated Allianz’s most popular sales kit has been updated and streamlined to better fit your needs and is even better than before. Learn more. Order your USB drive!!!!!

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208-297-7818 // annuity.com // amber@annuity.com

2601 North Alder St | Tacoma, WA 98407 US

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The Short List:

(Some links may have to be cut and paste)

Four-percent drawdown vs income focus

http://www.iol.co.za/business/personal-finance/retirement/annuities/four-percent-drawdown-vs-income-focus-1.1750338#.VBc5ZWctAiQ

100 Questions to ask: estate planning

http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2014/09/05/100-questions-to-ask-in-an-estate-planning-intervi?

CBS News

6 questions before buying a fixed indexed annuity

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/six-questions-to-ask-before-buying-a-fixed-indexed-annuity/

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Clients Want Ethical Advisors. Are You One? Steven Blum, author of 'Negotiating Your Investments,' spells out the kind of advisor investors should be looking for. http://enews.sbmedianews.com

How to overcome your client’s annuity misconceptions Many potential purchasers are unaware of the benefits of a fixed annuity purchase. Consider the misconceptions clients often have, and learn how you can help inform them about how an annuity can actually help them realize their objectives for retirement or financial planning for beneficiaries.

http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2014/09/09/how-to-overcome-your-clients-annuity-misconception

The future of insurance comes down to these 4 things

The G-20Y Summit is nothing if not ambitious, but it’s already producing the kind of thought the insurance industry could use, and in so doing, has identified what might just be the four most important issues facing the insurance world now, and in the future.

http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2014/09/16/the-future-of-insurance-comes-down-to-these-4-thin?

The little-known IRS rule that could change your client's retirement plan

By taking advantage of little-known IRS rules that provide for in-service 401(k) withdrawals, the client can use funds that are already earmarked for retirement to implement an annuity strategy that guarantees income during retirement — without incurring a single penalty — while they are still working and contributing to the 401(k).

http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2014/09/15/the-little-known-irs-rule-that-could-change-your-c?

2014 100 Best Sales & Marketing Ideas

There are a million ways to sell an insurance product, and any one of them

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may work depending on your target market, your product lineup and your own unique skill set. But there are a few that have been proven to deliver great results time and time again.

http://www.lifehealthpro.com/100-best-sales-ideas-2014/

NAIFA YAT Forum panelist: Expect a new wave of life products

In the coming years, many more carriers will offer products that allow owners of permanent policies to convert the cash value or death benefit into a single premium immediate annuity-like life income option.

http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2014/09/08/naifa-yat-forum-panelist-expect-a-new-wave-of-life?

A simple three-step process to selling life insurance

The harsh reality is that life insurance is a very complicated, misunderstood, and often overlooked piece of a comprehensive financial plan. The best solution is to make this difficult discussion an educational process versus a sales process.

http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2014/09/05/a-simple-three-step-process-to-selling-life-insura?

Social media from scratch, Part 1: Facebook

Get started today establishing your social media presence with these basics for breaking into the online world.

http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2014/09/14/social-media-from-scratch-part-1-facebook?

7 sins of social media marketing

Whether your brand is too boring, too tone-deaf or too promotional, your social media approach can’t be an afterthought. Here are seven deadly sins of social media marketing to avoid at all costs to keep your audience engaged, interested and loyal.

http://mashable.com/2014/08/28/social-marketing-sins/?

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Boomer Clients' Biggest Fear

The health care uncertainties are exacerbated when a worker retires early -- as more than half of the survey respondents over 50 did, citing health problems as the No. 1 reason.

http://www.onwallstreet.com/news/retirement_planning/pre-retiree-clients-worried-about-healthcare-costs-2690428-1.html?

Bond Investors Should Lower Duration

Might be time to stay away from long positions

http://www.onwallstreet.com/news/retirement_planning/bond-investors-should-lower-duration-retirement-scan-2690434-1.html?

Tax Strategy: Longevity Annuity Rules

The final IRS longevity annuity regulations -- designed to help promote the use of qualified longevity annuity contracts with retirement accounts -- create an important option for retirees with 401(k), 403(b), 457(b) or IRA accounts to help ensure that they will not run out of retirement funds before they die

http://www.onwallstreet.com/news/annuities/tax-strategy-irs-longevity-annuity-rules-2690437-1.html?

From September 11 More to Estate Planning Than Just the Will:

http://www.onwallstreet.com/news/retirement_planning/there-is-more-to-estate-planning-than-just-the-will-retirement-scan-2690374-1.html

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Napa Earthquake Could Cost $4 Billion as Wineries

Close

Insurance will probably cover about $2.1 billion, according to estimate

http://www.thinkadvisor.com/2014/08/25/napa-earthquake-could-cost-4-billion-as-wineries-c?

Lawyer Charged With Bilking Client, 90, to Fund Cat Litter Box Invention

A Sacramento elder law attorney is charged with financial elder abuse on multiple counts

http://www.thinkadvisor.com/2014/08/29/lawyer-charged-with-bilking-client-90-to-fund-cat?

Total U.S. annuity sales hit $61.4 billion in second quarter

"This is only the second time we have seen quarterly sales over $60 billion since the third quarter of 2011,

http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2014/08/20/total-us-annuity-sales-hit-614-billion-in-second-q

SEC Charges RIA with Fraud for Paid Investment Recommendations

An investment advisory firm is facing fraud charges in connection with an undisclosed compensation arrangement the advisors allegedly maintained with their broker involving a set of mutual funds they were recommending to clients.

The SEC claims that over an eight-year period, the Houston-based Robare Group netted

$440,000 in payments from a broker for persuading clients to invest in the funds in question,

amounting to a clear conflict of interest that the co-owners of the firm failed to disclose.

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http://www.onwallstreet.com/news/regulatory_compliance/sec-charges-ria-robare-group-with-fraud-for-paid-investment-recommendations-2690343-1.html?

FINRA Warns of Stock Scams Tied to Ebola, Other Viral Diseases

FINRA says that it is 'aware' of several potential 'pump and dump' scams

http://www.thinkadvisor.com/2014/09/04/finra-warns-of-stock-scams-tied-to-ebola-other-vir?

Know options if you own variable annuity

The key element of this transition is making the decision to move your money from the variable annuity into a fixed annuity of some kind. Read more: The Marietta Daily Journal - Know options if you own variable annuity

4 things the annuity industry can do today

Coming out of the financial crisis of 2008, lingering low interest rates, non-traditional new market entrants (including private equity firms and start-ups) and changing regulatory requirements have proved extremely challenging.

http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2014/08/26/4-things-the-annuity-industry-can-do-today?

LIMRA MOST AMERICANS ILL PREPARED FOR DEATH OF BREADWINNER

With Life Insurance Awareness Month now underway, it’s an

opportune time to take stock of the industry’s progress in insuring

middle class Americans. Progress there is, but much remains to be

done.

http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2014/09/02/limra-most-americans-ill-prepared-for-death-of-bre?

HYBRID INDEXES HELP SPUR FIA SALES

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September 3, 2014 by Linda Koco

http://www.looktowink.com/2014/09/hybrid-indexes-help-spur-fia-sales/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=hybrid-indexes-help-spur-fia-sales

From August 21

Voya offloads $100 billion of life policies, freeing capital

Voya Financial Inc. struck a deal to transfer life insurance policies with a face value of about $100 billion to Reinsurance Group of America Inc., freeing up funds

http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2014/08/15/voya-offloads-100-billion-of-life-policies-freeing?

Fidelity to Pay $12 Million to Settle 401(k) Suits

Fidelity's own employees alleged the mutual fund giant charged excessive fees in the company’s own 401(k) plans

http://www.thinkadvisor.com/2014/08/13/fidelity-to-pay-12-million-to-settle-401k-suits?

SEC Fines Linkbrokers $18 Million for Hidden Fees

Brokers charged markups and markdowns during times of market volatility to conceal false prices

http://www.thinkadvisor.com/2014/08/14/sec-fines-linkbrokers-18-million-for-hidden-fees?

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The Longevity Insurance Dilemma

http://www.forbes.com/sites/frankarmstrong/2014/08/14/the-longevity-insurance-dilemma/

7 Things You Need to Know Before Buying an Annuity

The average person probably knows far less about annuities than he or she

does about individual retirement accounts.

http://investorjunkie.com/36609/buying-annuity/

Before investing, don't forget the prospectus

Don't be afraid to ask embarrassing questions

http://www.stamfordadvocate.com/news/article/Before-investing-don-t-forget-the-prospectus-

5692270.php

From August 14

Almost 20 percent of people near retirement age have no

retirement savings

The sobering statistic was one of many released by the Federal Reserve on

Thursday as part of its report on the economic well-being of U.S.

households, which surveyed more than 4,100 people online last year

between mid-September and early October.

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http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/wonkblog/wp/2014/08/07/almost-20-percent-of-people-near-

retirement-age-have-no-retirement-savings/

Should an annuity be annuitized?

http://www.onwallstreet.com/30-days-30-ways/should-an-annuity-be-annuitized-2690120-1.html?

6 Mistakes you may be making in your marketing

http://mashable.com/2014/07/31/marketing-mistakes/

From August 7

Indexed Universal Life And Chronic Illness Riders

Popular With Life Insurers

In the UL market, 17 percent of sales in the first nine months of 2013

contained a long-term care (LTC) rider, and in the IUL market during the

same period 9 percent of sales contained an LTC rider

http://insurancenewsnet.com/innarticle/2014/07/29/indexed-universal-life-and-chronic-illness-riders-

popular-with-life-insurers-a-536536.html#.U-DqKMIg-M9

Nearly 85 percent of carrier respondents expect to either market an

LTC or chronic illness rider within 12 to 24 months, the survey also

found.

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Older Workers Get Retirement Jitters; Current Retirees More Relaxed

Despite having significant nest eggs, pre-retirees more likely to fear financial struggles in retirement.

http://www.thinkadvisor.com/2014/08/04/older-workers-get-retirement-jitters-current-retir?

Dark Pool

Barkley’s creates the problem and we get sucked in

http://annuitynews.com/Article/Some-FIA-Agents-Face-Dark-Pool-Backlash/533619#.U9kLK8Ig-M9

Men Pay 38% More For Life Insurance than Women

Men pay an average of 38% more than women for the exact same life

insurance policy, according to a new insuranceQuotes.com report. The gap

grows with age: for example, 25-year-old men pay 25% more than 25-year-

old women for the same policy. At age 45, men pay 32% more than women,

and at age 65, the gap grows to 40%.

http://insurancenewsnet.com/oarticle/2014/07/24/men-pay-38-more-for-life-insurance-than-women-a-

534894.html#.U9kMCsIg-M8

From 7-31-14 Short List, Open MIC Notes

Most Americans don’t understand annuities

The good news for the annuity industry: most Americans would consider the fixed-income products to finance some aspect of their retirement.

http://www.thinkadvisor.com/2014/07/25/most-americans-dont-understand-annuities?

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Most Americans Don’t

Understand Annuities But most would consider them as a retirement income source

A quarter of Americans say they would not buy an annuity for any reason. The good news for the annuity industry: most Americans would consider the fixed-income products to finance some aspect of their retirement.

The not-so-good news: more than half of those surveyed don’t really understand how annuities work.

According to a study by The Phoenix Cos., nearly three-quarters (71%) of Americans would consider using annuities to establish predictable income in retirement, as a vehicle to protect inheritances, or as way to protect money for health and chronic care expenses.

But 53% said they are “not familiar with annuities,” according to Phoenix Companies, and only 20% are actually planning to use an annuity to convert retirement savings into a set income stream.

The survey confirms what annuity-industry insiders have suspected anecdotally for years, says Mark Fitzgerald, national sales manager for Saybrus Partners, a subsidiary of Phoenix. People “don’t necessarily understand the basic income protection traditionally offered on all annuities, and they also are not aware of the range of benefits available on newer products, such as accumulation and chronic care features.”

When investors have annuities explained to them, particularly the variety of annuities designed to protect income for specific purposes in retirement, such as long-term health care costs, people show a strong interest, Fitzgerald said. “The annuities available today are not your grandfather’s annuity.”

About half of respondents said they would use annuities to establish an income stream. Forty-one percent said would use and annuity as an inheritance vehicle, and 36% said they’d use an annuity to establish reserves for health-care expenses.

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One-quarter of respondents said they would not consider purchasing an annuity for any reason.

The Phoenix data suggests the annuity industry has some work to do in establishing a greater understanding of their products: 34% of participants said they were “not at all familiar” with annuities; 19% were “not very familiar.” Only 13% said they were “very familiar.”

Of the pre-retirees surveyed, 69% expressed confidence in their ability to establish predictable income streams with their retirement savings.

The challenge for the annuity industry is in bridging the gap between those who would consider using annuities to set up predictable income streams (49%), and those who are actually planning to do so (20%).

“While it is encouraging that people are willing to consider annuities, they clearly need some help translating intentions into concrete plans,” says Fitzgerald.

---

Investors Need To Fear Fraudsters More

Investors are not scared enough when it comes to security concerns, according to Steven Crosby, global private banking and wealth management leader for the Americas for PricewaterhouseCoopers.

http://www.fa-mag.com/news/investers-need-to-fear-fraudsters-more-18665.html

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS RATINGS OF ALLIANZ LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY OF NORTH AMERICA

http://www.looktowink.com/2014/07/m-best-affirms-ratings-allianz-life-insurance-company-north-

america-allianz-life-insurance-company-new-york/?

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Women confident -- yet unprepared -- for retirement

According to a new Prudential study

http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2014/07/16/women-confident----yet-unprepared----for-retiremen

Hold the Hallelujahs on New Treasury Ruling on

Deferred Annuities

The recent U.S. Department of Treasury ruling that allows access to

deferred annuity options in certain qualified retirement plans seems like

great news but might not be the boon that many retirees anticipate

http://insurancenewsnet.com/oarticle/2014/07/26/hold-the-hallelujahs-on-new-treasury-ruling-on-

deferred-annuities-says-retireme-a-535921.html

How the aging population is changing the marketplace Doubling the number of retirement-age seniors will fuel need for financial advice

http://www.investmentnews.com/article/20140727/REG/307279994/how-the-aging-population-is-

changing-the-marketplace?

Talk about lack of transparency, the SEC votes to remove

“black” marks

The Securities and Exchange Commission approved Tuesday a rule

proposed by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority to prohibit

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arbitration settlements from being conditioned on investor agreement to

clear “black marks” from a broker’s record.

http://www.thinkadvisor.com/2014/07/24/sec-oks-finra-rule-on-expungement-of-broker-black?

Social Security Disability Fund Teeters on Brink of Broke

Disability insurance trust fund needs to be shored up 'soon,' projected shortfall in 2016, chief actuary Goss warns lawmakers

http://www.thinkadvisor.com/2014/07/24/social-security-disability-fund-teeters-on-brink-o?

Variable Annuities Punish Returns, Taxes and Heirs

In these days of low bond yields, many people are looking for easy, set-it-

and-forget-it investments to generate income. Stepping aggressively into

this itchy market are insurance companies and their salesmen, extolling the

supposed benefits of the variable annuities (VAs) they offer

http://abcnews.go.com/Business/variable-annuities-punish-returns-taxes-heirs/story?id=24699145

Annuity in an IRA? Maybe, now

Changes in the annuity landscape have made some inroads against this rule

of thumb – including guaranteed living benefit riders, death benefits, and

other options

http://www.figuide.com/annuity-in-an-ira-maybe-now.html

Nearly Three-Quarters of Americans Are Interested in Diverse Benefits Available With Annuities, According to Phoenix Companies Survey

71 percent of Americans said they would consider buying an annuity to

meet a variety of needs, including predictable monthly income, leaving an

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inheritance for their heirs, assistance with chronic care expenses and asset

accumulation opportunities.

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/nearly-three-quarters-of-americans-are-interested-in-diverse-

benefits-available-with-annuities-according-to-phoenix-companies-survey-2014-07-

22?reflink=MW_news_stmp

From the week of July 24

Big demand from advisers for Social Security claiming tools,

training

But few are willing to pay for it. Although most financial advisers provide

near-retirees with some guidance on Social Security claiming decisions,

many need to increase their knowledge and skills in this increasingly

important area, according to a new study released Monday by Practical

Perspectives and GDC Research.

http://www.investmentnews.com/article/20140707/FREE/140709964

When to Take Social Security: A Breakdown by Marital Status When should a retiree start taking Social Security benefits? Hundreds of thousands of dollars are at stake in the answer, and the smartest path depends on a number of factors — perhaps most importantly, marital status. http://www.thinkadvisor.com/2014/06/18/when-to-take-social-security-a-breakdown-by-marita?

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Free can be very profitable

Sometimes your kind gesture can have no monetary value at all. It’s just a little effort, taking time out to do something nice for a customer or potential customer. http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2014/07/06/free-can-be-very-profitable?

Variable Annuities a Top Source of Customer Complaints: FINRA

FINRA 'very focused' on VAs; also watching inflation-sensitive products

http://www.thinkadvisor.com/2014/06/30/variable-annuities-a-top-source-of-customer-compla?

Retire Village “Visual Tools”

Our easy-to-use tools will help you calculate many valuable retirement and

financial scenarios.

http://ral.retirevillage.com/calculators2

Variable annuity sales raising concern: Finra official

Product remains at top of investor complaint list and the self-regulator

wants to ensure investors understand what they're getting into

A Finra official on Monday expressed concern over the sale of variable annuities, as investors look for higher returns and the products become more complex.

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http://www.investmentnews.com/article/20140630/FREE/140639989

5 things to know about children's life insurance The policies are typically purchased by parents, grandparents or anyone directly related to the child, according to Steve Weisbart, chief economist for the Insurance Information Institute. http://www.omaha.com/money/things-to-know-about-children-s-life-insurance/article_d98b0d79-4f23-5ffc-9a67-1891dcc7a4c1.html

INCOME ANNUITIES:

Explaining and Measuring Return

http://annuityoutlookmagazine.com/2014/07/income-annuities/

CDs Fashionable Again for Low-Risk Yield

A certificate of deposit is an attractive option for retirees --CNN Money

http://www.onwallstreet.com/news/retirement_planning/cds-fashionable-again-for-low-risk-yield-wednesdays-retirement-scan-2689818-1.html?l

The Wealthy Need Social Security Advice, Too

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If you eschew Social Security planning because you can’t make a few extra basis points, you fail to see the bigger picture and I fear for your clients. As for the latter, a less-than-optimal claiming strategy can result in hundreds of thousands of dollars less for your high-net-worth clients.

http://www.thinkadvisor.com/2014/07/16/the-wealthy-need-social-security-advice-too?

U.S. Debt Path ‘Unsustainable’

The Congressional Budget Office painted a sober picture of the nation’s long-term fiscal path in its 2014 Long-Term Budget Outlook, released Tuesday.

http://www.thinkadvisor.com/2014/07/16/us-debt-path-unsustainable-thanks-to-social-securi?

House insider trading probe involves 44 funds, entities

An insider-trading probe involving the House Ways and Means Committee and a top staff member also includes dozens of hedge funds, investment advisers and other firms, the Securities and Exchange Commission said in a court filing.

http://ewallstreeter.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1570017ed3b11fe534b360fd4&id=2eab39a058&e=9bedb1ca28

Insurers Add New Agents with Diversity

Newbies need not apply?

Five years after the end of the Great Recession, life and annuity companies are hiring again but show a preference for seasoned advisors, especially those who can penetrate cultural and generational markets,

http://insurancenewsnet.com/innarticle/2014/07/18/insurers-add-new-agents-with-diversity-a-532238.html

Good work: Finra employees make double industry pay

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http://www.investmentnews.com/article/20140623/BLOG03/140629971

Did Mom Bungle Her Deferred Annuity?

Annuity maturity date article

http://www.foxbusiness.com/personal-finance/2014/07/16/did-mom-bungle-her-deferred-annuity/

-------------------------------------------

Below: From week of July 17th

‘Annuity Burglar’ Case Tossed by Judge A California judge threw out 29 felony charges and one misdemeanor against a former insurance agent who spent more than four months in jail awaiting trial in a case that some said could lead to criminalizing surrender charges.

Alan S. Lewis, who turned 51 while in jail, was accused of embezzlement,

grand theft and burglary in the sale of annuities with surrender charges.

http://insurancenewsnet.com/innarticle/2014/07/10/%e2%80%98annuity-burglar%e2%80%99-case-

tossed-by-judge-a-528702.html#.U8Ru6sIg-M8

Does your client need a revocable trust?

http://www.onwallstreet.com/blogs/estate-planning-revocable-trusts-2689791-1.html?

Manage your cash flow in sunset years

You can buy annuities from life insurance companies who offer annual returns of about 6-

7%.

http://businesstoday.intoday.in/story/retirement-years-financial-planning/1/207653.html

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5 critical compliance issues for 2014

http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2014/07/10/5-critical-compliance-issues-for-2014?

What is a Qualifying Longevity Annuity Contract

(QLAC)?

http://www.obliviousinvestor.com/qualifying-longevity-annuity-contract-qlac/

Feds looking at University of Phoenix for fraud abuse on

student loans

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/07/14/university-of-phoenix-review-federal_n_5586335.html

Retirees Suffer in Rollover Boom

Some retirees who lost large portions of their 401(k)s after rolling over into IRAs are filing complaints about brokers enriched by their risky investments.

http://www.treasuryandrisk.com/2014/06/17/retirees-suffer-in-rollover-boom

Why your dying deal can’t be saved

Saving a deal requires the same things as selling one does. In order to save a deal, you

need to know why the prospect might want to buy and what he expects to get from

buying. You need to know what future state he is trying to achieve. You need to know

why it matters and why his current situation is unacceptable.

http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2014/06/26/why-your-dying-deal-cant-be-saved

10 things life insurance agents won’t say

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Americans bought more than $1.7 trillion worth of individual life insurance

coverage in 2012, according to the American Council of Life Insurers, a

trade group

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/10-things-your-life-insurance-agent-wont-say-2014-07-11

Stretch IRAs no longer targeted in Senate highway-funding

bill

Distributions from inherited Individual retirement accounts can continue

over a lifetime.

http://www.investmentnews.com/article/20140711/FREE/140719981

New IRS Regulations Permit the Purchase of Longevity

Annuities by Qualified Retirement Plans

Under the directive of providing individuals with additional lifetime income

options, the IRS issued final regulations on July 2, 2014, permitting the

purchase of longevity annuity contracts.

http://www.natlawreview.com/article/new-irs-regulations-permit-purchase-longevity-annuities-

qualified-retirement-plans

Wells Fargo Advisors' profit soars

Wirehouse raked in $544 million, up 25% from the year-earlier quarter

http://www.investmentnews.com/article/20140711/FREE/140719984

Fear & Greed Index

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What emotion is driving the market now

http://money.cnn.com/data/fear-and-greed/?iid=HP_LN

These pensions could fail

If you have clients or loved ones who are counting on getting retirement income from their multi-employer defined benefit pension plan, this might be a good time to have a talk about not putting all the eggs in one basket.

http://blog.insurancenewsnet.com/2014/07/10/these-pensions-could-fail/

401(k) rollover boom enriches brokers at retirees’ expense

Former employees at major companies have complained that sales representatives lured them into rolling over their 401(k) nest eggs into unsuitable IRA investments.

http://seattletimes.com/html/businesstechnology/2024041313_rollovermiragexml.html

Variable Annuities a Top Source of Customer Complaints: FINRA

FINRA 'very focused' on VAs; also watching inflation-sensitive products

http://www.thinkadvisor.com/2014/06/30/variable-annuities-a-top-source-of-customer-compla?

The financial fallout from Germany's World Cup rout of Brazil

The economic and political ripple effects of Germany's soccer team

trouncing Brazil, 7-1

http://www.investmentnews.com/article/20140709/BLOG12/140709933

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If ever the stock market flashed a ‘sell’ signal, it’s now

(share from Chad)

Most investors seem to feel pretty confident that this market will never go

down. But if you’ve studied bear markets, you know how this story will end.

Don’t forget: Human nature never changes.

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/if-ever-the-stock-market-flashed-a-sell-signal-its-now-2014-07-09

Life insurance: who needs it?

Who really needs life insurance? That's a question many prospects pose and

even more so as the sea of younger potential clients grows. Many feel a

policy is unnecessary and -- now more than ever -- are hesitant to take on

another monthly bill.

http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2014/07/08/life-insurance-who-needs-it?

What you need to know about the cost of fixed

annuities

The cost factors can be very complicated and, sometimes bewilderingly so.

http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2014/07/03/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-cost-of-fixed-annu

Donate life insurance policies to a charity

http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-07-02/lifestyle/sns-201407011130--tms--premhnstr--k-f20140702-

20140702_1_charity-life-insurance-premiums

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--------------------------------------------

We Recommend: www.annuity.com/agenttools If you are not using this "Free" resource you are missing out....did I mention it is free? There is a ton of info here, it requires no password and it is up to date information.

---------------------------------- Disclaimer:

My opinion and/or numerous sources complied by me are used in

preparing Open MIC.

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I obtain information from many sources, print, internet, agent gossip and other media. I always try and provide the original source or the link but my note taking habitually is lacking.

Much of the content on Open MIC is written by me and is my personal opinion. You should never consider that I am the world’s greatest authority or expert on anything. Always consult professionals who are licensed to give correct advice regarding taxes and securities and other topics of great importance.

I am an authority in lead generation and marketing annuities and am fully licensed as an insurance salesman. I sell state approved annuity products provided by licensed insurance companies.

I am also NOT an economist by license, only by hobby. If you decide to make decisions based on my particular view of the world, you should get it verified by licensed professionals or get your head examined.

Open MIC is and was created for the entertainment of our agents, family, friends, guests, industry spies and me. Be careful with the information contained in Open MIC and always get advice from licensed professionals. You never know, sometimes I might make something up….so always verify!

Also, the information used in Open MIC is free; I assert no copyright or literary rights. Copy away.

Our competitors will copy Open MIC anyway so I might just as well give it away, saves so much mental anguish and sleepless nights.

More Legal Stuff...

Be responsible... we cannot know your individual situation, always do your own due diligence before responding to any offer or investing any money.

I can't accept responsibility for the profitability or legality of any published articles or opinions published in Open MIC. Nothing in these Open MIC notes should be considered personalized advice. Although I may answer your general questions, I am not licensed under securities laws to address your particular situation. No communication by me to you should be deemed as personalized advice.

And, although all of the articles have been selected for their content, however in the interests of balanced reporting we often publish articles we may not agree with, the publishing of such articles within Open MIC notes does NOT constitute a recommendation of the products or services mentioned or advertised within those articles. Boise State will go unbeaten

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this coming football season, we open against Ole Miss in the Georgia Dome August 28.

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